Mjóifjörður

Mjóifjörður

Incorporating the Icelandic word for narrow, mjór, Mjóifjörður fjord lives up to its name throughout its 18-kilometre length. The mountain ranges that separate it from Norðfjörður and Seyðisfjörður provide shelter and particularly good weather. The fjord boasts such incredible beauty that it may be thought of as a treasure hidden by the mountains.

The tiny village of Brekka provides for basic human needs, with a church, school, tourist shop, post office and coffee house. Local industry includes fishing and fish farming.

Slightly over a century ago, local industry included whaling which was centred on the station at Asknes, across the fjord. Built by the Norwegians around 1900, at that time this station was one of the world's largest, employing some 200 people. Today, the population of the whole fjord is only around 25.

The road to Mjóifjörður is only gravel. In some places, it is also quite steep and requires slow, careful driving. Once you have reached the village, you can continue driving or cycling farther east, out to the lighthouse farm of Dalatangi. During winter the road to Mjóifjörður generally remains closed from about October to sometime in May, since the snow is seldom cleared. Year-round, however, the ferry Anný (Tel. +354 853 3004 or 616 2630) provides transport by sea from Neskaupstaður. It runs twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, leaving the village in Mjóifjörður at 10:00 and leaving Neskaupstaður at 12:30, or later by arrangement.

The fjord is known as an excellent place to pick berries, but it is even more famous for its great peace and calm and for its spectacular waterfalls.